According to PG&E, the transmission line will span about 70 miles across Fresno, Madera and Kings counties, running from the Gates to Gregg substations, which are owned and operated by PG&E. The utility says the new line will help reduce the number and duration of power outages and bolster efforts to integrate renewable energy onto the grid.

"Today's energy infrastructure is adapting to meet the demands for greater renewable sources, while continuing the reliable service to customers," adds John Cupparo, president of MidAmerican Transmission. "This collaboration with PG&E and Citizens Energy is evidence of MidAmerican Transmission's continued investment to ensure that California's energy infrastructure keeps pace with these evolving demands."

The transmission line would be operational no later than 2022 and could come online earlier, PG&E notes.

PG&E reports that the project needs to undergo an approval process through the California Public Utilities Commission. PG&E, MidAmerican Transmission and Citizens Energy will work collaboratively with local stakeholders to determine the optimal routing of the line as part of the approval process.